The civilian job market is tight. With all your military experience and skills listed on your resume, it still might not be enough to secure a meaningful position in the private sector. You’re competing against candidates who did not take time to serve in the military but offer deep experience in their chosen career field — and they may bring vast networks of helpful contacts as well as advanced degrees and certifications.
Is it time to upskill or get more education?
As I wrote in my book, “Success After Service”:
Deciding to go back to school after military service is not an easy choice for some. You know you’ll be postponing your income-earning days, you will be older than the more traditional college student, and you may need to modify your lifestyle to live on GI Bill stipends. But the opportunities and potential for your life and career gained through a college or graduate school experience are exponential, and for many of you this will be the best choice.”
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I recently spoke with “Jim,” a transitioning airman, who recognized that his career in project management after leaving the Air Force would be hindered by his lack of a bachelor’s degree. His military career was — by all accounts — impressive, but his lack of a college degree stopped him at the door from several of his desired employers.
Today, some companies drop the college degree requirement while most admit to keeping the requirement. And some are requiring more advanced education and degrees to be considered. As you evaluate whether to pursue post-military education (college undergraduate, postgraduate or specialized degrees), consider:
1. Is the Requirement Necessary for the Specific Work You Wish to Do?
Yes, certain fields require additional training and education. Doctors, accountants, psychologists, biochemists and astronomers need specialized education to perform their work, just to name a few. But if it’s a preference, rather than an actual requirement, consider the costs versus benefits of additional education.
2. Is Additional Education Something You Believe You Need?
To be an executive coach, for instance, it can be beneficial to have training and licensing, but it’s not required. The certification will not give you legitimacy if you lack the other qualities needed to perform this work successfully.
3. Can You Financially Afford to Get the Education Now?
With the funds you have access to, ask yourself: Can you support yourself and your family while you pursue either full- or part-time schooling?
4. Will You Be Able to Work While You Are in School?
If you have a family and will need to be in school part time, are you physically able to get a job to help support your lifestyle and needs? This would be a good conversation to have with your support system.
5. Can You See How Additional Education Gained Now Will Accelerate Your Career in the Future?
You could be making short-term compromises and lifestyle adjustments for a bigger payout down the road if your career can grow faster and more lucrative with the advanced degree.
If you’ve determined the time is right to gain additional education, know you’ll be entering a new chapter in your work career. You’ll learn as much in the classroom as you will from those around you and will use that learning to grow personally and professionally.
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